A 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit Nepal between Kathmandu and Pokhara on Saturday, with dozens of aftershock tremors of at least 4.5 magnitude and greater occurring in the aftermath. Tremors are said to have affected nearby countries, including India and Bangladesh as well.

The government of Nepal has declared a state of emergency. Over 6.6 million people in the area are affected, with the death toll rising rapidly at over 1000. Hundreds more are feared to be trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings, temples and towers, including the historic Dharahara Tower. Entire villages have been reported to have been razed. The earthquake also hit Mount Everest , triggering a large avalanche in its aftermath. The basecamp is said to have been severely damaged and many climbers were found dead while others are still trapped.

As night fell, most people opted to sleep outside in open space, for fear of concurring aftershocks. Water, food and shelter are all sources of anxiety, especially in remote areas. Rescue operations are slowly taking place but more assistance is desperately needed. Relief agencies such as the MSF and UNICEF are also sending teams and medical kits.

Google has launched a person finder for the earthquake to help track missing people at http://google.org/personfinder/2015-nepal-earthquake

“Safety Check”, a feature by Facebook, can also be used to see who among your Facebook friends in the area are marked safe. Social media remains one of the only sources of communication to help find loved ones, as the phone lines and the network overall are down.

ANQ prays for the safety, recovery and health for all of our loved ones in Nepal.

To help Nepal's earthquake victims ANQ has created an online donation portal.